What Can I Expect Out of My Ignition Interlock Program?

If you need an Ignition Interlock from a court or state requirement, you’re probably wondering how the program will go because you may have the device for a while. For example, how do tests work while you’re driving (also known as ‘random rolling retests’) or service appointments? What are the general functions of the device and other services?

Let’s go over what to expect from your Ignition Interlock program and some helpful tips to know about your device.

The Ignition Interlock Program

First, you should know that installing an Ignition Interlock is the right step to driving again safely after a DUI or DWI. In some states, this can be an OUI or OWI, but all these acronyms mean impaired driving. In any case, you can now get back to your everyday routine like driving to school or work instead of waiting out a hard suspension period. Let’s go over a few details during your Ignition Interlock program that you can expect.

• Preparing for an Ignition Interlock Installation Appointment

Knowing what to bring to your installation appointment will make the process much easier for you and your technician. Make sure to bring the proper paperwork and/or ID with you! Since the items that you need to bring to your appointment varies state-by-state, we have a helpful Interlock installation appointment guide that covers what to bring and how long the appointment will be.

Plus, if you are a Smart Start client, you will be receiving the best Ignition Interlock customer service. During your program, you’ll be visiting the same technician and shop every month or every other month depending on where you live, so they will be like your partner until your device removal. Our team will always be friendly, approachable and answer your questions.

Tip: Going to the same Ignition Interlock service location is nice, but if you do need to travel out of state or you need to go somewhere closer to work rather than home, Smart Start has many service locations throughout the U.S. available to you!

• Random Rolling Retests

Random rolling retests  are the subsequent tests that your device will prompt for while your vehicle is in motion. Keeping true to its title, these tests are at random and must be completed within a certain time-frame. Every state’s time frame varies, but for general purposes, you’ll have up to six minutes to complete a rolling retest. Smart Start recommends pulling over safely to complete your random rolling retests. A random rolling retest will NEVER shut down your vehicle!

• Service Appointments

Using an Ignition Interlock means you’ll need to visit your provider’s service center monthly or bi-monthly, depending on your state or court. This type of service is usually called calibration appointments, which ensures that your device is functioning properly.

When you do visit for your calibration appointment, it’s important to note if customer service is top-of-mind for your Ignition Interlock provider. Smart Start’s mission is all about the client, so you can experience the easiest Ignition Interlock program possible. If your provider’s team is not treating you like a human being, you can transfer providers while still following your court or state Ignition Interlock requirements.

• Vehicle Mechanic Appointments During Your Ignition Interlock Program

If you have a service appointment coming up for your vehicle, there’s no need to worry about your Smart Start Ignition Interlock. We have special tips for your mechanic on our website that will prevent your device from recording a violation. We also provide additional information about what to do for mechanic service appointments on our blog.

Ignition Interlock Device Tips

Did you know that you can use your device’s keypad for multiple features that will help you throughout your program?

• Your Next Service Appointment

You can check your next service appointment by pressing the pound or # sign, then press 1.

• Change Your Language Settings

Need to change languages on your Ignition Interlock? You can easily change between English and Spanish right on the keypad. If you need to change to Spanish, type in 772*. If you need to switch back to English, press 364*.

• Violation Points

You can check how many violation points you have remaining on your Ignition Interlock as well. Just press the pound, or #, key, and then press 3 on your keypad. Keep in mind that the violation points vary state-by-state!

• Your Car’s Battery

Check your car battery’s current voltage right on your Ignition Interlock’s screen! Just press the pound or # sign, then press 2.

What Does ______ Mean on My Ignition Interlock? 

You may also come across some messages that are unfamiliar to you on the Ignition Interlock. Below are explanations that cover what these messages mean, and what to do next.

• WARN, FAIL and VIOLATION on Your Interlock Device
• What to Do If Your Ignition Interlock Goes into Lockout

If you have any more questions or would like to speak to a Smart Start representative, our 24/7/365 Customer Care Center is standing by to help at (800) 831-3299. Our service agents are here for you, so feel free to contact us if you are unsure or need any clarification with your Ignition Interlock program. If you don’t have an Ignition Interlock yet but you need to install one, we can assist you with next steps.

Install a Smart Start Ignition Interlock for an Affordable Program

Schedule your installation appointment today and receive a free quote with your nearest service location. Just call (800) 831-3299 or fill out our online form and we’ll take care of the rest!